PEARL CITY NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 21

REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
TUESDAY, AUGUST 26, 2025 at 7:00 P.M.
MOMILANI COMMUNITY CENTER,
715 HOʻOMOANA ST, PEARL CITY, HI 96782
AND VIA WEBEX

This meeting location is open to public participation.
Other available options including WebEx and phone-in instructions are as follows:

WEBEX Meeting Link: https://cchnl.webex.com/cchnl/j.php?MTID=mbdb01f17b499a89cdb59bf83086d38ec
Meeting Number/Access Code: 2498 533 4017
Password: NB21 (6221 from phones and video systems)
Join By Phone: 1-408-418-9388
PCNB Documents posted on Google Drive: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1V5AlaHjrMVo42KclDDH1qS-pc2oJVF9l

MEETING POLICY – Adopted July 22, 2025
Rules of Speaking:
Virtual: Anyone wishing to speak is asked to open the list of participants and click the “raise hand” icon by their name. When recognized by the Chair, address comments to the Chair. Remarks should not exceed 3 minutes. (Please cancel the “raise hand” icon after speaking. Presentations must be kept under 5 minutes. Please silence your cell phones. The “chat” box can also be used to ask simple questions. Board Members are required to keep their video active during the board meeting.

Recordings of Board Meetings can be found at: https://www.youtube.com/@NeighborhoodCommissionOffice

Note: The Board may take action on any agenda item. As required by the State Sunshine Law (HRS 92), specific issues not noted on this agenda cannot be voted on, unless added to the agenda. Board actions such as draft resolutions and outgoing letters will be posted for the public on Google Drive.

Board Agenda Items: The Board is requesting that all written reports presented at the board meeting be soft copy emailed to the Board Chair and Website Manager: lveray@hawaii.rr.com and info@pearlcitynb.com. All written testimony must be received in the Neighborhood Commission Office 48 hours prior to the meeting. If within 48 hours, written and/or oral testimony may be submitted directly to the board at the meeting. If submitting written testimony, please note the board and agenda item(s) your testimony concerns. Send to: Neighborhood Commission Office, 925 Dillingham Blvd, Suite 160, Honolulu, HI 96817. Fax: (808) 768-3711. Email: nbtestimony@honolulu.gov

I. CALL TO ORDER – Chair Larry Veray
A. Pledge of Allegiance – Cub Scout Pack 75 – Cubmaster Scott Ogasawara
B. Time Limit Policy and Procedures from previous board term
C. All participants are to sign in for in-person and virtual identify yourself to NCO Assistant on WEBEX
D. Introduction of the Neighborhood Board Team (All board members must have their video turned on)

II. PUBLIC SAFETY REPORTS
A. Honolulu Fire Department
B. Honolulu Police Department

III. PUBLIC TESTIMONY – Limited to 3 minutes each (Resident/Community Concerns) to include confidential and public safety concerns from residents who wanted to remain anonymous requesting board member to present their issue at the board meeting

IV. PRESENTATION – Limited to 5 minutes each
A. Update on Pearl City Storage Project 1080 Kuala St – Poverni Shelkh

V. BOARD BUSINESS
A. Recognition of Board Members
B. Approval of Committee Members
C. Resolution Requesting the City Explore Revitalizing Manana Kai Park as an Urban Open Space Park
D. Resolution Requesting the State and City Initiate Collaborative Transportation Planning for all Pearl City Schools
E. Review of 2025-2026 Legislative Priorities
F. PCNB Letter to City Department of Planning and Permitting and the Department of Health documenting resident concerns about a possible illegal care home on Hoonipo Street and requesting any regulatory permitting be halted and/or revoked.
G. Update on Resident Request to eliminate Parking on Mauka Side of Kumano St
H. Approving a letter of support for the renaming of the PEARL CITY DISTRICT PARK POOL to honor KEN SUENAGA (RES25-205)
I. Working with the Makakilo-Kapolei-Honokai Hale Neighborhood Board in Establishing a Permitted Interaction Group (PIG) to partner with other boards to work mutual issues with our neighborhoods

VI. CITY & COUNTY OF HONOLULU
1. Office of the Mayor – Mr. Gene Albano, Director Facility Maintenance
2. Councilmember Val Okimoto

VII. GOVERNEMENT MONTHLY REPORTS
A. GOVERNOR’S OFFICE
1. Governor Josh Green’s Office – Mr. Jeff Hickman, Public Affairs
2. Hawaii Department of Transportation – Mr. Casey Abe, HDOT State Highways Division

C. STATE LEGISLATURE
1. Senator Glenn Wakai (D15)
2. Senator Brandon Elefante (D16)
3. Senator Henry Aquino (D19)
4. Representative Gregg Takayama (D34)
5. Representative Cory Chun (D35)
6. Representative Trish La Chica (D37)

D. CONGRESSIONAL OFFICIALS
1. Congressman Ed Case –Mr. Nestor Garcia, Director of Communications

E. OTHER AGENCIES
1. Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam – Ms. Kris Tanahara
2. Leeward Community College – Chancellor Carlos Penaloza
3. Pearl City Library – Ms. Vicky Bowie, Branch Manager
4. Board of Water Supply – Mr. Arlen Ledward, Civil Engineer

F. ASSOCIATIONS
1. Pearl City Community Events – Mr. Tony Velasco

VIII. BOARD ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS
1. Regular Board Meeting Minutes Approval – July 22, 2025 minutes

IX. CHAIR & BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS
The Pearl City Neighborhood Board No. 21 next board meeting will be both Hybrid Virtual and In-Person facilitated on WEBEX virtually and facilitated at Momilani Community Center 715 Hoomoana St, Pearl City. The next board meeting will be on Tuesday, September 23, 2025. The Pearl City Neighborhood Board No. 21 meetings are broadcasted on Focus Channel 49 and air 2nd Saturday at 6:00 PM and 1st and 3rd Friday at 1:00 PM.

X. ADJOURNMENT

A mailing list is maintained for interested persons and agencies to receive this board’s agenda and minutes. Additions, corrections, and deletions to the mailing list may be directed to the Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO) at Kapālama Hale, Suite 160, 925 Dillingham Boulevard, Honolulu, Hawaiʻi 96817; Telephone (808) 768-3710 Fax (808) 768-3711. Agendas and minutes are also available on the internet at www.honolulu.gov/nco.

If you need an auxiliary aid/service or other accommodation due to a disability or an interpreter for a language other than English, please call the Neighborhood Commission Office at (808) 768-3710 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. or send an email to nco@honolulu.gov at least three (3) business days before the scheduled meeting. It may not be possible to fulfill requests received after this date.

DRAFT INITIAL CONVENING MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, JULY 22, 2025 at 7:00 P.M.
Momilani Community Center, 715 Hoʻomoana St, Pearl City, HI 96782
ONLINE VIA WEBEX

Video Recording of Meeting Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d3lL5ER7o_k

Google Drive Link: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1V5AlaHjrMVo42KclDDH1qS-pc2oJVF9l

I. CALL TO ORDER – [0:00:01]: Chair Pro-Tem Larry Veray called the Pearl City Neighborhood Board No. 21 meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

Pledge of Allegiance – [0:00:26]: The Cub Scout Pack 75 administered the Pledge of Allegiance. Scout master Scott announced they will be hosting a pack meeting on Friday, August 22, 2025 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Momilani Community Center and popcorn sales.

Quorum was established with ten (10) members present. Note: This eleven-member Board requires six (6) members to establish quorum and to take official Board action.

Members Present: Michael C. Taylor, Rodney Awong, Charmaine Doran (virtual), Gaius Dupio, Ryan Yamato, Daniel Smith, Nathan Takeuchi (virtual), Antonio Velasco, and Larry Veray.

Members Absent: Heidi Weber.

Guests: Firefighter James Duggins (Honolulu Fire Department); Lieutenant Glenn Iwasaki (Honolulu Police Department); Scott (Cub Scout Pack 75); Director & Chief Engineer Gene Albano (Mayor Blangiardi); Aaron W. (Councilmember Val Okimoto); Jeff Hickman (Governor Josh Green’s Office); Casey Abe (Hawaii Department of Transportation); Nathaniel Ise (Senator Henry Aquino); Representative Gregg Takayama; Representative Cory Chun; Representative Trish La Chica; Tosa Lobendahn (Representative La Chica’s Office); Stella A. (Representative La Chica’s Office); Kris Tanahara (Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam); Lieutenant Liz Longo (Navy Closure Task Force Red Hill); Vicky Bowie (Pearl City Library); Arlen Ledward (Board of Water Supply); Kyle Miyashiro (Pearl City High School), Tara Sutton (Red Hill Registry), Fred Brummer, Lois Miyeshiro, Myra Sugiyama, Shane Nomure, Dave Chew, Anela Chew, Steve Peich, James Duggins, Mike Buck, and Keith C. (Resident); and Anson Wu (Neighborhood Commission Office). Note: Name not included if not legible or stated for the record. There were approximately 39 total participants.

II. PUBLIC SAFETY REPORTS – [0:04:39]
Honolulu Fire Department – [0:04:44]: Firefighter Duggins provided the incident statistics for June 2025 and shared safety tips regarding wildland fires.
• June 2025 Statistics: There were (0) structure fire, (3) wildland brush fires, two (2) nuisance fires, (0) cooking fire, (5) activated alarms, 134 medical emergencies, (1) motor vehicle collision with pedestrian, two (2) motor vehicle crash/collisions, (1) mountain rescue, (0) ocean rescue, and one (1) hazardous material incident.
• Safety Tip: Wildland Fire Safety – Wildland fires significantly threaten Hawaii’s landscape, wildlife, and communities. With dry conditions and daily activities increasing the risk, it’s crucial to take proactive steps to prevent and mitigate wildland fires. Lighten the load by reducing the risk of ignition through maintaining yards and cleaning gutters to remove fuels. Clear vegetation 10 feet around campfires and barbecues, keep a shovel and water nearby, and ensure fires are completely extinguished before leaving. Ensure machinery, chainsaws, weed trimmers, and recreational vehicles have operating spark arresters that are maintained frequently.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:07:09]
1. Member Smith asked about recommendations for plants to replace invasive California grass. Firefighter Duggins responded that he didn’t have that information but would pass along the question.
2. Member Inouye inquired about the status of acquiring air water tankers for Hawaii, such as C-130 or 767 aircraft. Firefighter Duggins mentioned a new helicopter coming on board with water drop capabilities that would increase capacity as it is a twin turbine helicopter able to carry more load.
3. Member Awong asked about cameras on emergency sirens to detect fires and other tools that could help firefighters. Firefighter Eric Maeda responded that while more resources and tools would be helpful, the current resources are generally adequate. He noted the camera idea was good and mentioned they also have drones and helicopters that provide aerial views.

Honolulu Police Department – [0:1316]: Lieutenant Iwasaki provided the crime statistics for June 2025 and shared safety tips.
• June 2025 Statistics: There were (3) motor vehicle thefts, 15 burglaries, 27 thefts, (9) unauthorized entry into motor vehicles, and 1,482 calls for service. Total calls for service for District 3 were 5,096.
• Safety Tip: Be prepared for natural disasters such as hurricanes. Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures and evacuation routes.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:14:34]
1. Member Smith requested a breakdown of calls for service to help prioritize resources given the current understaffing situation. Lieutenant Iwasaki acknowledged the suggestion.
2. Member Awong requested speed readers be deployed near Highlands Intermediate School as the new school year approaches. Lieutenant Iwasaki was informed by member Awong that the speed trailer is currently in the police station parking lot. Lieutenant agreed to deploy it.
3. Lieutenant Iwasaki discussed efforts to address racing at night, particularly at Waimano Home Road and Kuala where racers meet. He explained that officers are working on their off-duty time to target these areas because it’s difficult to address during regular shifts due to call volume.
4. Member Doran asked about speeding in Palisades and increased penalties for reckless driving in school zones. Lieutenant Iwasaki confirmed that reckless driving is an arrestable offense at any time, not just during school hours.
5. Resident Peich reported issues with disruptive individuals at Highlands Park and pool area. Lieutenant Iwasaki promised to send officers to check on the situation and encouraged residents to call police when incidents are occurring.
6. Resident Miyeshiro reported problems with drifters near Pearl City High School on Hookiekie Street. Lieutenant Iwasaki said he would place officers in those areas for traffic enforcement and noted the challenge of catching offenders in the act.
7. Resident Brummer suggested more random patrols to deter issues like racing, fireworks, and electric bikes. Lieutenant Iwasaki agreed with the suggestion and explained they are developing a more proactive approach to address these issues.
8. Member Awong asked about the possibility of speed humps to deter reckless driving. Lieutenant Iwasaki offered to partner with the neighborhood board and provide statistics to support requests for speed humps to the city and state.

III. ELECTION OF OFFICERS – [0:34:00]

Chair – [0:34:17]: [0:34:25] – Charmaine Doran nominated Larry Veray for Chair. Hearing no other nominations, a roll call vote was conducted. Larry Veray was elected as Chair; 10-0 (Veray: Taylor, Awong, Doran, Inouye, Dupio, Yamato, Smith, Takeuchi, Velasco, and Veray; Abstain: None) – [0:34:43]

Vice Chair – [0:35:58]: [0:36:01] – Larry Veray nominated Charmaine Doran for Vice Chair. Hearing no other nominations, a roll call vote was conducted. Charmaine Doran was elected as Vice Chair; 10-0 (Doran: Taylor, Awong, Doran, Inouye, Dupio, Yamato, Smith, Takeuchi, Velasco, and Veray; Abstain: None) – [0:36:14]

Secretary – [0:37:11]: [0:37:16] – Rodney Awong nominated Tony Velasco for Secretary. Hearing no other nominations, a roll call vote was conducted. Charmaine Doran was elected as Secretary; 10-0 (Velasco: Taylor, Awong, Doran, Inouye, Dupio, Yamato, Smith, Takeuchi, Velasco, and Veray; Abstain: None) – (0:37:38]

Treasurer – [0:38:18]: [0:38:22] – Larry Veray nominated Guy Inouye for Treasurer. Hearing no other nominations, a roll call vote was conducted. Guy Inouye was elected as Treasurer; 10-0 (Inouye: Taylor, Awong, Doran, Inouye, Dupio, Yamato, Smith, Takeuchi, Velasco, and Veray; Abstain: None) – [0:38:36]

IV. PUBLIC TESTIMONY – [0:39:40]

Halfway House – [0:39:51]: Resident Peich reported ongoing issues with a house on Hoonipo Street that was purchased in December 2023 and has been a revolving door for individuals with mental health issues coming out of homelessness. Issues include garbage being thrown into his yard, raging outbursts from residents, and concerns about overcrowding. He expressed frustration with the lack of resolution despite multiple police calls.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:42:50]
1. Aaron W. (Councilmember Okimoto’s Office) stated that the Department of Planning and Permiting (DPP) had issued a notice of violation for overcrowding but found the house in compliance upon reinspection. He mentioned that a mediator could help neighbors resolve conflicts; resident Peich responded that mediation had been suggested but has no binding legal aspect, and the problems continued even after DPP’s intervention, including a beer bottle being thrown into his yard.
2. Chair Veray committed to following up with Aaron W. to address the issue at the director level, noting that the neighborhood boards aren’t notified about halfway houses in their areas.
3. Director Albano mentioned Bill 13, now law, that allows HPD to inspect properties in accordance with lease rental agreements, which could potentially help address the situation.
4. Member Taylor suggested contacting the State Department of Health’s Alcohol and Drug Abuse Division if the property is operating as an unlicensed halfway home.

Feral Cats and Chickens – [0:51:37]: Resident Miyashiro and Sugiyama raised concerns with feral cats and chickens behind her house on Hookiekie Street. She stated that people are feeding the animals despite her requests to stop, and the chickens have multiplied to about 20, causing damage to trees.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:53:12]
1. Chair Veray asked what time are the people are feeding the cats and chickens. Resident Miyashiro stated they feed them around 6:30 a.m.
2. Chair Veray noted that this is a widespread problem and mentioned a previous city council initiative that spent $75,000 but only caught about 150 chickens.
3. Chair Veray asked Lieutenant Iwasaki if there’s any enforcement for preventing the feeding of cats and chickens. Lieutenant Iwasaki noted that he wasn’t aware of a specific law against feeding cats but would look into whether the Humane Society could assist with the cat situation.
4. Lieutenant Iwasaki asked the location on where they the chickens are? Resident Miyashiro are located below the Pearl City Highschool road.
5. Member Inouye suggested contacting the Department of Customer Services for feral chicken removal. Resident Miyashiro read that renting cages to catch the chickens cost $50 a week and $10 to get rid of it. Director Albano confirmed that the city has contracted with Sandwich Isle to place cages to catch feral chickens and provided contact information for reporting the issue.

Community Fair – [0:58:31]: Tara Sutton Director of Community Engagement for the Red Hill Registry Announced the Red Hill Registry’s formal enrollment launch and community fair on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at Moanalua High School from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The event is open to the community, whether they experienced health impacts from the water crisis or just want to learn more about the registry.

V. BOARD BUSINESS – [0:59:53]

[1:00:07] – Vice Chair Doran asked public testimony regarding a parking removal. Hearing no objections Chair Veray moved the presentation to support No Parking on Mauka Side of Kumoana Street between Kaweloka and Kaumoli Street in the beginning of board business

Discussion to support No Parking on Mauka Side of Kumoana St between Kaweloka and Kaumoli St – [1:01:12]: Fred “Doc” Brummer presented concerns about parking on both sides of Kumoana Street, which creates access issues for emergency vehicles, buses, and his handicap transportation. He noted that similar streets in the area have no parking on both sides and requested no parking on one side of Kumoana Street.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:07:26]
1. Chair Veray will do an investigation with Kelly Akasaki with the Department of Transportation Services and will take action in the next Neighborhood meeting.
2. Member Awong asked if the cars were registered and moved regularly. Mr. Brummer responded that there had been issues with cars not moving, but after he called police, the owners started moving them more frequently. He noted that some vehicles might not be properly registered.

[1:08:12] – The video component of the meeting was cut off

3. Vice Chair Doran noted this appeared to be a neighbor conflict and suggested requesting the city to evaluate whether there’s a public health and safety issue. She asked about the policy for handicap van pickups, to which Mr. Brummer explained they currently pick him up on Kaweloka Street because Kumoana Street is usually full.
4. Chair Veray stated the board would investigate with the Department of Transportation Services and allow time for neighbors to provide comments before taking action at the next meeting.
Board decision of meeting location, time, place, recess month(s) – [1:12:28]: Chair Veray proposed maintaining the current meeting location at Momilani Community Center, the 7:00 p.m. start time, and continuing to recess in June and December. Hearing no discussions and objections, the motion WAS ADOPTED; 10-0-0 (AYE: Taylor, Awong, Doran, Inouye, Dupio, Yamato, Smith, Takeuchi, Velasco, and Veray; NAY: None; Abstain: None) – [1:12:57]

Adoption of Rules of Speaking – [1:13:13]: Chair Veray reviewed the rules of speaking, noting that everyone needs to address the Chair first before speaking and that the board must abide by the Sunshine Law (HRS 92).

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:14:22]
1. Vice Chair Duran proposed limiting speaking time to three minutes and presentations to five minutes to allow board members more time to digest information and ask questions. She noted that many boards have similar time limits due to the number of agencies that report at meetings.

[1:15:13] – Vice Chair Doran MOVED and Awong SECONDED to allow speaking time 3 minutes and 5 minutes for presentations. Hearing no discussions and objections, the motion WAS ADOPTED; 10-0-0 (AYE: Taylor, Awong, Doran, Inouye, Dupio, Yamato, Smith, Takeuchi, Velasco, and Veray; NAY: None; Abstain: None) – [1:15:50]

Board Decision establishment of Committees and respective Chairs – [1:16:08]: Chair Veray presented the proposed committee assignments:

Legislative Capital Improvements Committee – Chair: Charmaine Doran
Development, Planning, and Zoning Committee – Chair: Ryan Yamato
Public Safety, Crime Prevention Committee – Chair: Rodney Awong
Traffic and Transportation Committee – Chair: Dan Smith
Health, Safety, Education, and Welfare Committee – Chair Heide Weber
Emergency Disaster Preparedness Education Committee – Chair: Larry Veray
Parks and Recreation Committee – Chair: Tony Velasco (with Nathan Takeuchi as backup)
Recognition of Achievers Committee – Chair: Tony Velasco
Youth Awareness Committee – Chair: Michael Taylor
Environmental Improvements for Pearl City Committee – Gaius Dupio
Oahu Metropolitan Planning Organization (OMPO) Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) – Representatives: Daniel Smith (with Larry Veray as backup)
Pearl Harbor Restoration and Advisory Board (RAB) – Representatives: Guy Inouye

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:19:31]
1. Vice Chair Doran expressed support for the new Emergency Disaster, Environmental, and Youth committees.
2. Chair Veray praised highly on Member Smith’s role as a representative of the OMPO committee and Member Inouye role as representative of the RAB committee.
3. Member Takeuchi expressed concern about his ability to commit to chairing the Parks and Recreation Committee due to his job’s after-hours commitments. Chair Veray arranged for Member Velasco to chair the committee with Member Takeuchi as backup.

Hearing no further discussion and objections, the motion WAS ADOPTED to re-establish the previous and new committees; 10-0-0 (AYE: Taylor, Awong, Doran, Inouye, Dupio, Yamato, Smith, Takeuchi, Velasco, and Veray; NAY: None; Abstain: None) – [1:22:44]

Discussion to support No Parking on Mauka Side of Kumoana St between Kaweloka and Kaumoli St – [1:22:51]: This item was moved up earlier in the agenda.

Decision to support Pearl City Shopping Center Christmas Parade; Department of Transportation Services (DTS) Letter – [1:22:58]: [1:23:23] – Doran MOVED Awong SECONDED to adopt the letter in support of the Pearl City Shopping Center Christmas Parade.

[1:23:48] – Doran MOVED Awong SECONDED to amend the letter to make it shorter and have similar verbiage to letters from the previous year. Hearing no objections, the motion WAS ADOPTED; 10-0-0 (AYE: Taylor, Awong, Doran, Inouye, Dupio, Yamato, Smith, Takeuchi, Velasco, and Veray; NAY: None; Abstain: None) – [1:24:43]

Decision to support Pearl City High School Homecoming Parade;// DTS Letter – [1:24:52]: Kyle Miyashiro, Student Activities Coordinator for Pearl City High School, provided information about the annual homecoming parade scheduled for Friday, October 3, 2025, starting at 3:00 p.m. The parade will start at the high school, go down Hoʻolauleʻa Street, take a right by Highlands Intermediate, head down Waimano Home Road, and end at Pacheco Park.
[1:25:52] – Doran MOVED and Taylor SECONDED to adopt the letter.

[1:26:02] – Doran MOVED and Taylor SECONDED to amend the letter to the shorter version. Hearing no further discussion the board conducted a voice vote. The motion WAS ADOPTED; 10-0-0 ; 10-0-0 (AYE: Taylor, Awong, Doran, Inouye, Dupio, Yamato, Smith, Takeuchi, Velasco, and Veray; NAY: None; Abstain: None) – [1:26:16]

Discussion – Propose a trial period to add two Pearl City High School Students as delegates to the Pearl City Neighborhood Board to incorporate student voices into decision making – [1:26:38]: Kyle Miyashiro expressed support for the proposal, noting it would be a great opportunity for students to voice concerns about the school and community. Member Taylor will lead this initiative through the Youth Affairs Committee.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:27:10]
1. Chair Veray stated he would brief the Neighborhood Commission the following week and finalize the plan at the next board meeting.
2. Vice Chair Doran officially referred the matter to the Youth Affairs Committee to find members and make recommendations.
3. Member Taylor expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, noting he is a Pearl City High School graduate who has worked with Mr. Miyashiro on student leadership programs.

Discussion – Board Member outreach to the community at local shopping centers – [1:28:42]: This item was skipped, was revisited at a later time.

VI. CITY & COUNTY OF HONOLULU – [1:28:42]

Office of the Mayor – [1:28:42]: Director Gene Albano provided updates from the mayor’s newsletter and addressed questions from previous meetings.
• Report: The city is beginning an 80-acre master planning effort for the Iwilei-Kapālama sub-corridor; Mayor Blangiardi signed bills to increase public safety along the Leeward coast; the Mayor’s Office of Culture and Arts unveiled three new art installations; entrepreneurs along the Waiʻanae coast began the Idea2Biz incubator program; the city unveiled online driver’s license and learner permit tests; and responses to questions asked in the previous meeting.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RvJ0IZXndCOmMpXSnmS-XuK56TGtCo3V/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:30:45]
1. Member Awong asked about surveyors at the Moanalua Road and Waimano Home Road intersection. Director Albano confirmed design work is likely underway for that intersection and construction would follow.
2. Member Awong asked if Complete Streets would be coming to Pearl City communities. Director Albano responded that Kelly Akasaki from DTS would be presenting the latest design proposals for Complete Streets to the neighborhood board.
3. Member Inouye asked about the percentage of traffic lights connected to the Joint Traffic Management Center (JTMC) traffic control center. Director Albano said he would follow up with DTS on that question.
4. Vice Chair Doran asked about recouping costs for repeatedly damaged guardrails or fence in Palisades. She noted that after contacting Budget & Fiscal Service (BFS) and filing a public records request, she learned that the Department of Facility Maintenance (DFM) maintains the contract and records. Director Abano promised to follow up on whether the city is trying to recoup costs for the recurring damage.
5. Member Smith expressed appreciation for the traffic signal timing changes at Waimano Home Road and Komo Mai Drive and said he would continue to advocate for the improvements.
6. Member Smith mentioned uprooted invasive grass at Palisades Community Park that needs to be removed. He noted that volunteers had collected about 40 baseballs while working there.
7. Member Awong asked about the Nānākai Street crosswalk, which Director Albano confirmed would be removed as part of the Complete Streets project. Member Inouye expressed concern about the safety hazard, noting that a car traveling at 35 mph would need 130-140 feet to stop, but the intersection is only about 80 feet from Waimano Road. Director Albano will look into the request.
8. Member Awong asked about cleaning Hālawa Stream. Director Albano stated that the city had recently cleaned all of Hālawa Stream within city jurisdiction.
9. Member Smith asked about new tenants on parcels near the rail station. Director Albano did not have specific information about the tenants.
10. Member Inouye noted that the grassy area of the Pearl City off-ramp is state jurisdiction while the road is city jurisdiction, creating a complex maintenance situation.

V. BOARD BUSINESS (CONTINUED) – [1:42:53?]
Discussion – Board Member outreach to the community at local shopping centers – [1:42:53]: Chair Veray is planning to do an outreach session at Don Quote and Walmart to inform the residents about the neighborhood boards.

VI. CITY & COUNTY OF HONOLULU (CONTINUED) – [1:43:21]

Councilmember Val Okimoto – [1:43:23]: Aaron W. provided updates on behalf of Councilmember Okimoto.
• Report: The City Council held a special full council meeting on June 17, 2025 after which Councilmember Okimoto was named chair of the Committee on Budgets; Councilmember Okimoto and Council Chair Waters introduced Bills 49 and 50 to amend real property tax homeowners exemption; the administration has received the board’s resolution on the dog park; DFM will install shoulder and parking lanes with raised pavement markings on Lanikuhana Avenue; DTS and HPD are addressing speeding concerns at Kīpapa Elementary School; the Parks Division will cut overgrown grass at Pearl City District Park; and a resolution will be introduced to rename the Pearl City District Pool after Ken Suinaga.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XoN6p0NMlD_-pH77VBwzWnVBMyQ3CKWu/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:45:59]
1. Member Dupio asked about the schedule for opening Phase 2 of Skyline rail. Aaron W. confirmed it is on schedule to open on October 1, 2025, and will extend to the airport.
2. Chair Veray mentioned his term on the Neighborhood Commission has expired and Councilmember Okimoto has submitted him for another term.

VII. GOVERNOR’S OFFICE – [1:47:06]

Governor Josh Green’s Office – [1:47:06]: Mr. Jeff Hickman addressed questions from the previous meeting and provided updates.
• Report: Regarding why high school students need to raise money for graduation, Department of Education (DOE) explained that graduation ceremonies are optional student activities and fees help cover venue rental, transportation, and other expenses.
•
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:48:12]
1. Member Smith commented on the disparity in graduation ceremony quality between schools and suggested DOE should provide good ceremonies for all high schools. Mr. Hickman agreed to relay this concern.

• Report (Continued): Regarding COVID vaccines, DOH encourages everyone age six and older to get vaccinated, and urges all residents to ensure their children are up to date on measles vaccines.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed (Continued) – [1:49:47]
1. Member Awong asked if students are still required to get physicals and vaccinations before entering intermediate school. Mr. Hickman confirmed vaccinations are required but would check on the physical requirement.
2. Member Awong asked about graduation venues, noting that some parents preferred high school fields over the convention center. Member Taylor, a 2017 Pearl City graduate, explained that students and teachers choose the venue at the start of the year, with capacity being the main concern for not using high school fields.

• Report (Continued): Mr. Hickman provided information about the recent tsunami watch and encouraged signing up for alerts from the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center. Mr. Hickman reported that the governor signed an emergency proclamation activating the National Guard and Hawaii Emergency Management Agency, with a helicopter crew on standby for wildfire response from now until September (later extended to November).
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RXBVQsuOvJns38UNTAKGiXpaWp1xjxJg/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed (Continued) – [1:54:37]
1. Member Awong asked about the state’s plans to establish a wildfire fighting team. Mr. Hickman confirmed the state is looking into this and would follow up with more information.
2. Member Inouye discussed the potential for air tankers to assist with wildfire fighting in Hawaii. Member Inouye noted he had submitted a proposal on using C-130s and wanted a update. Chair Veray suggested using C-130s from the Coast Guard at Kalaeloa with a memorandum of agreement between federal firefighters and the Coast Guard to save on logistics costs. Mr. Hickman will pass it on.

Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) – [2:01:04]: Mr. Casey Abe provided updates on various transportation projects and concerns.
• Report: HDOT has coordinated with the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation work furlough program to cutting back the overgrown vegetation along Kamehameha Highway; illegal dumping was removed on Monday, June 2, 2025; HDOT is researching concerns about merging onto H-2 Freeway northbound; potholes on H-1 Freeway eastbound near Kalihi Street overpass were patched on Tuesday, June 17, 2025; pothole patching on the Moanalua Freeway eastbound was completed in June 2025 with repaving scheduled for December 2025; homeless encampments near Pearl Highlands transit station are under the jurisdiction of HART and Hawaiian Homelands; an abandoned vehicle near Sunset Memorial Park was removed on Tuesday, June 10, 2025; overgrown vegetation and trash along the Pearl City off-ramp to Moanalua Street were cleaned up; and an update on the suggested conversion of the third lane Kamehameha Highway going eastbound into another left turn lane onto Acacia Road.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:06:44]
• Member Awong asked about jurisdiction of areas near the transit station. Mr. Abe clarified that the Mauka side of Kamehameha Highway is Hawaiian Homelands jurisdiction, while the area where the parking structure was supposed to be built belongs to HART. Mr. Abe clarified that the road itself belongs to the state.

A. STATE LEGISLATURE – [2:07:59]

Senator Glenn Wakai (D15) – [2:08:03]: No representative present.

Senator Brandon Elefante (D16) – [2:08:09]: No representative present.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XoN6p0NMlD_-pH77VBwzWnVBMyQ3CKWu/view?usp=drive_link

Senator Henry Aquino (D19) – [2:08:23]: Nathan Ise provided a brief report on behalf of Senator Aquino and stood by his written report.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/15NY7LX6ox-8J8A31yEj4fr4wvGa7g_s7/view?usp=drive_link

Representative Gregg Takayama (D34) – [2:09:08]: Representative Takayama provided updates and distributed his newsletter.
• Report: He mentioned ongoing efforts to control feral cat feeding; Representative Takayama became chair of the House Health Committee this year and has been focusing on addressing health issues, noting that there is a 10-year difference in life expectancy between beginning and end of H-1; and discussed vaccination requirements for schools, noting concerns about low measles vaccination rates in some charter schools.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/10ZgeWrInim60y1hCXxklwv-ujBdKVbTs/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:14:13]
1. Member Smith mentioned the need to monitor the school busing situation. Representative Takayama agreed and noted that one of the laws passed this session expanded the variety of vehicles that can be used to transport school children.
2. Chair Veray discussed the impact of noise pollution on health, particularly from boom boxes, loud exhaust, and racing vehicles. He noted that as president of his homeowner’s association, he had considered asking the state for noise walls like those on mainland expressways. Representative Takayama mentioned the state’s authorization of noise detectors at certain intersections, currently being tested in Downtown and Waikīkī areas with potential to expand to other communities.
3. Chair Veray proposed establishing a citizen’s community policing team to collect evidence of violations for HPD to issue tickets. He offered to discuss with Representative Takayama how the state legislature could support this initiative.
4. Chair Veray thanked the legislative team for their support of Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery revitalization, noting they had secured $150,000 from the state and $125,000 from the city. Representative Takayama credited Chair Veray’s leadership on the project.
5. Member Awong suggested using aerial surveillance to address racing on freeways, similar to California Highway Patrol practices. Representative Takayama acknowledged this could be effective.
6. Member Inouye asked about stem cell research at the cancer center or medical school. Representative Takayama responded that the legislature had added three positions to JABSOM for research on aging-related conditions and would be happy to support stem cell research if requested.
7. Member Inouye mentioned that speed cameras on Vineyard Boulevard initially detected 26,000 violations for exceeding the speed limit by 5 mph, which dropped to 12,000-15,000 when the threshold was raised to 11 mph.

Representative Cory Chun (D35) – [2:23:08]: Representative Chun provided updates on his new role and legislative efforts.
• Report: Representative Chun was named chair of the House Committee on Agriculture and Food Systems. He discussed two bills that didn’t pass: one dealing with feral chickens that would have allowed property owners to humanely remove chickens on their property, and another that would have allowed counties to foreclose on properties with significant DPP violations.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nlVqfu7XfRLrM6RsYe7bAOnYM9PYyIW0/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:27:04]
1. Member Dupio suggested a program to help elderly neighbors maintain their yards as an alternative to enforcement actions. He described a situation where a neighbor’s children helped an elderly resident by recycling cans and cutting grass.
2. Member Smith offered to help with testimony on bills.

Representative Trish La Chica (D37) – [2:29:00]: Representative La Chica provided updates and introduced her staff.
• Report: The bill signing ceremony for HB 862 (now Act 140) to expand school bus options was held at Washington Place in May; the bill applies to school activities and functions; and DOE is working on amending contracts to implement the changes. Representative La Chica introduced her new office manager, Tosa Lobendahn, and summer intern, Stella A.
• Stella A. provided additional updates: Governor Green signed HB 231 (Safe Routes to Schools) into law as Act 212, establishing funding for safe infrastructure near schools; a community engagement meeting about the Kamananui Gondola project will be held on Wedmesday, July 30, 2025 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Leilehua High School; and Preschool Open Doors is accepting applications for the 2025-2026 school year.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PTkXl9ZSEmPPXSd5h-nyoSI4tLlNBi43/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:36:31]
1. Vice Chair Doran thanked Representative La Chica for supporting safe routes and different busing options, which have been longstanding priorities for the board.

B. CONGRESSIONAL OFFICIALS – [2:37:20]

Congressman Ed Case – [2:37:20]: No representative was present.

C. OTHER AGENCIES – [2:37:23]

Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam – [2:37:23]: Ms. Kris Tanahara provided updates on Navy Region Hawaii activities and introduced Lieutenant Liz Longo for the Navy Closure Task Force Red Hill update.
• Report: The annual drinking water quality report was released, showing all four Navy water systems meet state and national regulatory standards; NAVFAC awarded an $8 billion contract for construction, repair, and alteration of existing infrastructure in Hawaii and Wake Island; Saturday ship tours are continuing with the USS Shiloh scheduled next; community white boat tours of Pearl Harbor are conducted every other month; and public meetings were held on Kauai for the draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for Pacific Missile Range and the Kokee Park geological observatory.
• Lieutenant Elizabeth Longo provided the Navy Closure Task Force Red Hill update: Degassing operations on Tank 2 have begun, making it the seventh tank out of 14 to undergo ventilation; and the quarterly open house will be held on Wednesday, August 20, 2025 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Oʻahu Veteran Center.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/10PXC1xfCHeVy8UYmEgRFY37DOESc7_nx/view?usp=drive_link
• Navy Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PafiWpwQAARt58ls7T-DLdvZGCuLbl1y/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:42:42]
1. Member Inouye asked about the status of an environmental cleanup program using clams and oysters in Pearl Harbor. Ms. Tanahara explained that the pilot project was before her time and wasn’t very successful, but she would research the reasons. She mentioned a newer oyster propagation project in partnership with the University of Hawaiʻi. Member Inouye noted that he had observed improved fish populations in the harbor after the initial project, suggesting it had some positive effects.
2. Member Awong inquired about events related to the Missouri and the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. Ms. Tanahara confirmed there will be an open base event to commemorate the 80th anniversary, with Ford Island being accessible, though she didn’t have exact dates to share.

Leeward Community College – [2:47:51]: No representative was present.

Pearl City Library – [2:47:54]: Ms. Vicky Bowie provided updates on library activities and closures.
• Report: The library will be closed on Friday, August 15, 2025 for Statehood Day and Sunday, August 31, 2025 to Monday, September 1, 2025 for Labor Day; the reading challenge continues until the end of July 2025 with a grand prize of round-trip tickets on Alaska Airlines; an exhibit by the American Institute of Architects called “Faces of Architecture” will be featured in August 2025; and baby story time is held on the first Wednesday of each month at 10:00 a.m. and registration is required.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:49:40]
1. Chair Veray asked about plans for the library’s temporary relocation during renovations. Ms. Bowie stated that the facilities person, is still working on securing a location and they are waiting for permit approval. She hoped to have an update by the next month’s meeting.

Board of Water Supply – [2:50:48]: Mr. Arlen Ledward provided updates on water main breaks and upcoming events.
• Report: There were two water main breaks in Pearl City in June 2025: an 8-inch main break near 74 Hoomalu Street on Wednesday, June 18, 2025 and an 8-inch main break near 68 Hoomalu Street on Friday, June 20, 2025. The 2025 Annual Unthirsty Plant Sale will be held at Hālawa Xeriscape Garden on Saturday, August 2, 2025 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:52:38]
1. Member Awong asked about the status of the desalination plant in Campbell Industrial Park. Mr. Ledward said he would need to get back with that information.
2. Member Inouye mentioned water main breaks on Komo Mai Drive and Auhuhu Street in Palisades that weren’t included in the report. He noted that turquoise trucks were there for several hours fixing the road. Mr. Ledward did not have information on why these incidents weren’t reported.

VIII. ASSOCIATIONS – [2:54:14]

Pearl City Community Events – [2:54:18]: Member Velasco announced the Mark Takai Family Fun Day on Saturday, September 13, 2025 at Momilani Community Center from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

IX. BOARD ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS – [2:54:31]

Regular Board Meeting Minutes Approval – Tuesday, May 27, 2025 minutes – [2:54:32]: [2:54:51] – Velasco MOVED and Awong SECONDED to adopt the Tuesday, May 27, 2025 minutes as written. Hearing no discussion, the board conducted a voice vote. The motion WAS ADOPTED; 10-0-0 (AYE: Taylor, Awong, Doran, Inouye, Dupio, Yamato, Smith, Takeuchi, Velasco, and Veray; NAY: None; Abstain: None) – [2:54:57]

X. CHAIR & BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS – [2:55:05]

Sunset Memorial Park – [2:55:07]: Chair Veray announced cleanup for Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery on Saturday, August 2, 2025

The next Pearl City Neighborhood Board No. 21 meeting will be on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at Momilani Community Center and via WebEx. Pearl City Neighborhood Board No. 21 meetings are broadcast on Focus Channel 49 on the second Saturday at 6:00 p.m. and the first and third Fridays at 1:00 p.m.

XI. ADJOURNMENT – [2:56:32]: The meeting was adjourned at 9:56 p.m.

Submitted by: Anson Wu, Neighborhood Assistant, NCO
Reviewed by: Dylan Whitsell, Deputy, NCO
Finalized by:

To view agenda and minutes, visit our board website.

Event shows physical location; however, other options of participation may also include WebEx and phone.  If available, instructions for WebEx and phone can be found at the top of the agenda.